Complications of hepatic hydatid cysts: ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance diagnosis.

A total of 179 hepatic hydatid cysts (HHCs) were studied by ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The diagnosis of HHC complications was established by US and CT, which permitted a distinction between intact cysts and those presenting with contained rupture, as demonstrated by a collapsed endocyst or a globally echogenic appearance. The diagnosis of HHC perforation into the main biliary tree was made by detection of a discontinuity in the cyst wall and/or the presence of hydatid material within the biliary system. Similarly, direct HHC rupture into different thoracoabdominal spaces was diagnosed by demonstrating cyst wall discontinuity and the presence of hydatid material within these spaces. Ruptured and infected cysts were difficult to distinguish from ruptured cysts with sterile content. The role of MRI is yet to be defined in the assessment of HHC complications.